How Spain Joins Italy, Greece, France, and Croatia In an Overtourism Crisis by Drowning in Tourists Amid New Explosion of Travel Turmoil While Residents Suffer

Monday, June 23, 2025

Europe, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and iconic landmarks, has long been a top destination for travelers from across the globe. However, as tourism numbers surge to unprecedented heights, overtourism has become a significant concern. Cities like Barcelona, Venice, Mykonos, and Rome are struggling to cope with the massive influx of visitors, leading to crowded streets, strained infrastructure, and growing resentment among local residents.

In 2024, Europe welcomed over 747 million international travelers, far surpassing any other region in the world. Southern and Western Europe, in particular, accounted for more than 70% of these arrivals, with cities like Venice, Barcelona, and Paris seeing a substantial portion of this tourism boom. The continent’s allure, fueled by affordable travel options, the power of social media, and the ease of travel facilitated by artificial intelligence, has attracted millions of visitors, but the rapid rise in numbers has ignited concerns about its sustainability.

What is Overtourism and Why is it a Concern?

Overtourism refers to the situation where the number of tourists exceeds the capacity of a destination to handle them effectively, causing damage to local environments, infrastructure, and communities. It is not just about overcrowding but also about the negative impact tourism has on the local way of life. Cities with high tourist traffic often experience increased pollution, rising property prices, and loss of local culture, which in turn affects residents’ quality of life.

Factors Driving the Surge in Visitors

Several factors have contributed to the sharp rise in tourism in Europe. The affordability of air travel, the widespread availability of budget airlines, and the power of social media have made it easier than ever for tourists to explore Europe. With cheap flights, travelers from countries like the U.S., Japan, China, and the U.K. have been flocking to major cities in Southern and Western Europe. In addition, artificial intelligence tools have made travel planning more accessible, and apps and websites now offer detailed itineraries and insider recommendations, further fueling the desire to visit the continent.

However, it’s not just the volume of tourists that is problematic. The uneven distribution of tourists across seasons exacerbates the pressure on infrastructure. Popular destinations like Venice and Barcelona are particularly susceptible to seasonal surges, creating a situation where key attractions are overcrowded, and residents are forced to live in environments shaped by mass tourism.

Popular Destinations Feeling the Strain

Barcelona: The Water Gun Protest Movement

In Barcelona, a city known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and beachside charm, protests have erupted as locals express frustration over the effects of overtourism. The water gun protest, a symbol of the city’s anti-tourism movement, has become a notable feature of the protests, where locals have sprayed unsuspecting tourists with water while carrying signs reading: “One more tourist, one less resident!” This action has highlighted the tensions between the needs of residents and the influx of international visitors.

Barcelona has long struggled with overcrowding in its iconic areas such as La Rambla and Sagrada Familia, as well as its thriving beach culture. In recent years, the city has been trying to balance its reputation as a tourist hotspot with the needs of its residents. The situation has been exacerbated by the rise of short-term rental properties like those listed on Airbnb, which have contributed to the housing crisis and inflated rental prices, pushing locals out of city centers.

Venice: A City on the Brink

Venice, another famous European destination, faces similar issues. The city, which welcomed more than 30 million visitors in 2024, is struggling to manage the tourism surge, which has led to severe overcrowding in its narrow streets and canals. The city’s fragile environment is also at risk, with the constant flow of tourists causing damage to the iconic buildings, bridges, and waterways that have made Venice one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

The pressure on infrastructure has led to major disruptions in daily life. Local residents have voiced concerns about the lack of affordable housing, as many properties are being converted into tourist accommodations, pushing up rents for locals. Venice has tried to mitigate the effects of overtourism by introducing tourist entry fees, but the city’s fragile situation remains a case study in the dangers of unchecked tourism.

Mykonos and Santorini: The Strain of Mass Tourism in Greece

In Greece, Mykonos and Santorini have become emblematic of overtourism in the Aegean Sea. With their idyllic beaches, charming whitewashed buildings, and vibrant nightlife, these islands attract millions of visitors every summer. However, the increasing volume of tourists has placed immense pressure on the islands’ resources, from water supply to waste management.

The summer months on these islands have become synonymous with overcrowded beaches, traffic jams, and long queues at popular attractions. The local environment, especially on Santorini, has suffered from the rapid pace of development and the environmental impact of mass tourism. The islands are now facing the challenge of preserving their authenticity while catering to the growing demand from international tourists.

Solutions and Measures to Address Overtourism

In response to the growing concerns surrounding overtourism, several European countries and cities are implementing measures aimed at reducing the negative impacts of mass tourism. These measures are designed not only to manage tourist numbers but also to ensure that tourism remains a sustainable source of revenue for local economies without compromising the quality of life for residents.

Introducing Tourist Taxes and Entry Fees

In Venice, authorities have reintroduced entry fees for tourists visiting the city. The fee, which applies to day-trippers, is aimed at reducing overcrowding and generating funds for local infrastructure maintenance. Similarly, Barcelona is looking at stricter regulations on short-term rentals to address housing shortages caused by the tourism boom. Airbnb and other rental platforms have come under scrutiny for exacerbating the housing crisis, and the city is considering legislation to limit the number of properties that can be rented out to tourists.

Promoting Off-Peak Travel and Alternative Destinations

To ease the pressure on overcrowded tourist spots, many destinations are actively promoting off-season travel. For example, Greece has started to encourage visitors to explore lesser-known islands like Kefalonia and Naxos, which offer the same beautiful landscapes without the crowds. Similarly, Florence has launched a campaign to encourage travelers to visit during winter months, offering discounts on accommodations and attractions.

Leveraging Technology for Better Tourism Management

Italy’s Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè is advocating for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to better manage tourist flows, especially in cities like Florence where overcrowding is most problematic. AI could help in distributing visitors more evenly across time and space, allowing for smoother operations at top attractions like the Uffizi Galleries. The idea is for tourists to pre-book tickets months in advance, creating a more controlled and less overwhelming experience at Italy’s most popular destinations.

Sustainability and Green Travel: A Key Focus for the Future

As part of the efforts to combat overtourism, sustainable travel has become a key focus for European cities and tourism bodies. France and Germany are encouraging eco-tourism through initiatives that promote visits to national parks and rural areas. This not only spreads the tourism load but also ensures that the environmental footprint is minimized.

Tour operators across Europe are also offering packages that focus on sustainable practices. These tours prioritize local experiences, sustainable transportation methods like electric buses, and visits to attractions that are less likely to be overrun by tourists. In this way, tourism can contribute positively to local economies without causing environmental or social harm.

The Role of Local Communities in Managing Tourism

Local communities are also key players in managing overtourism. In Barcelona, local activists have formed groups to voice concerns over the transformation of their neighborhoods due to tourism. The rise of tourist-only businesses and the replacement of traditional shops with souvenir outlets have been sources of frustration for residents. These communities are advocating for policies that will help preserve the authenticity of their neighborhoods while still welcoming tourists in a way that benefits everyone.

Similarly, Venice has seen a rise in anti-tourism protests as residents demand action from local authorities to curb the impact of tourism on their daily lives. The challenge for European cities is finding a balance between welcoming tourists and ensuring that local residents don’t feel alienated by the flood of visitors.

Looking Ahead: A New Era for European Tourism

As Europe continues to deal with the challenges of overtourism, it is clear that a new approach to tourism management is necessary. The future of tourism in Europe will rely on sustainable practices, better regulation, and the active participation of both travelers and local communities. The rise of digital tools, including AI-driven solutions, and the push for more responsible tourism offer hope for a future where tourism can coexist with local culture, communities, and the environment.

In conclusion, Europe’s iconic destinations like Barcelona, Venice, Santorini, and Mykonos may always draw in huge crowds, but the region’s commitment to sustainable travel and responsible tourism is paving the way for a new era in the travel industry. With proactive measures in place, the future of European tourism can thrive without sacrificing the authenticity and beauty that make these destinations so special.